His name is not George Bailey and he doesn’t live in Bedford Falls.
Rather, his name is John Musa and he lives right here in Columbus.
Frank Capra’s 1946 film “It’s a Wonderful Life” told the fictional story of George Bailey and the community that rewarded his years of kindness by rallying to his support at a difficult time.
But John’s story is no work of fiction and that is why we cannot help but smile when we recognize the parallels in the two stories.
Adelnagi “John” Musa, 49, doesn’t really need an introduction to Columbus folks. The Yemen immigrant has owned and operated United Deli in east Columbus for years. He is known for generous portions and an even more generous nature — always upbeat, friendly, welcoming. Much like George Bailey, Musa is a beloved member of the community.
We know that good stories often have unexpected plot twists. It was true for George Bailey. Early Tuesday morning, it proved true for Musa as well.
Musa was arrested by the CPD for holding a man at gunpoint outside a building he owns on Alabama Street, one that had been burglarized several times as thieves removed valuable copper, to the tune of about $10,000, Musa said.
When Musa was alerted by a sensor of someone on the property in the middle of the night, he raced to the scene and encountered a man he assumed to be a thief. Musa held the man at gunpoint until police arrived.
Musa was arrested on a misdemeanor charge of simple assault.
No one who knows Mr. John believes the situation is more than a misunderstanding. Even still, we cannot condone his action. It could have taken a tragic turn. Far better let the police do that job.
If there is some good to come from this unfortunate situation, it’s that the community learned about Musa’s losses. Never one to burden others with his problems, Musa never asked for help.
George didn’t ask for help, either, but in the film’s heart-warming climax, grateful Bedford Falls residents descended on the Bailey home, dumping money on a table, more than enough to cover George’ s debt.
In Columbus, Realtor Colin Krieger launched a GoFundMe account, with a goal of $5,000 to help Musa recover some of his losses. In just more than 24 hours, the account had raised more than $20,000 from more than 300 donors. Reportedly, service professionals have also offered to donate labor.
Top that, George Bailey.
Sometimes, truth is better than fiction.
It is, indeed, a wonderful life.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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